How to Plan Your Banff Icewalk Tour: Morning or Afternoon Johnston Canyon Icewalk

If you’re looking for a thrilling outdoor activity during your trip to Banff, an icewalk through the Johnston Canyon is a must-do. The amazing ice formations and scenic views make this a unique experience that you don’t want to miss. One of the great things about this tour is that you can choose between a morning or afternoon departure, based on your schedule and preferences. Here’s how you can plan your Banff icewalk tour successfully:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

Start by booking your ice walk tour through an official provider like GetYourGuide, where you can select the time and date that works best for you. The convenient online booking system is quick and easy to use.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Icewalk

On the day of your tour, make sure to dress appropriately for the cold weather and wear sturdy winter boots. You’ll also need to bring your camera and lots of water to stay hydrated during the hike.

Step 3: Begin Your Adventure

Your tour will begin with pickup from your Banff hotel, where you’ll be driven along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway to the Johnston Canyon trailhead. Here, you’ll meet your friendly and knowledgeable guide, who will provide you with ice cleats, helpful tips and an overview of the history and geology of the area.

Step 4: Hike to the Frozen Falls

The hike to Johnston Canyon’s frozen falls is a moderate 2.7 kilometer hike with 135 meters elevation gain that is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll marvel at the stunning views of the canyon walls, the ice and the river below. You’ll also stop at the Lower Falls where you’ll learn about how the Canyon was formed. The highlight of the excursion is the Upper Falls, which is a breathtaking sight in the winter, transformed into an ice castle of sorts. You’ll have the opportunity to take photos and soak in the views before heading back to the trailhead.

Step 5: Warm Up with Hot Chocolate & Maple Cookies

When you return to the trailhead, you’ll enjoy a welcome refreshment of hot chocolate and maple cookies. Relive your experience with your fellow hikers and revel in the winter wonderland that you just explored.

Book Your Tour Now

Overall, the Johnston Canyon Icewalk is a must-do experience during any Banff winter vacation. By following these simple steps, you can book your tour, prepare yourself, and embark on a thrilling journey to discover the wonders of the canyon’s frozen landscape. Book the tour here and experience the magic of a Johnston Canyon Icewalk!

Frequently Asked Questions About Banff: Your Ultimate Guide

Banff is a charming town located in the Canadian Rockies, famous for its stunning scenery, unparalleled outdoor adventure opportunities, and unique local culture. Whether you’re planning a trip to Banff or simply curious about this awe-inspiring town, you likely have some questions. This FAQ aims to answer them all, from the best time to visit to the top things to do in Banff. So, let’s dive right in.

When is the Best Time to Visit Banff?

Banff is a year-round destination, each season offering its own unique attractions and activities. For outdoor enthusiasts, summer is the most popular time to visit Banff as it boasts warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the ideal time to go hiking, camping, or wildlife-watching. Additionally, Banff hosts a variety of summer events and festivals like Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival and Banff Marathon.

Fall comes with cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, and fewer crowds, making it perfect for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies with a bit more privacy. Ski season in Banff usually starts in November and lasts until May, with winter being the ideal time for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. Banff also hosts numerous winter festivals and events, including the famous SnowDays celebration.

The spring season in Banff is a sweet spot between winter and summer, featuring mild weather, fewer crowds, and blooming wildflowers. Wildlife watching is also fantastic during spring, as the animals come out of hibernation and start to graze in the valley bottoms.

How do I Get to Banff?

Banff is situated in the Canadian Rockies and is easily accessible by car, shuttle or bus from Calgary International Airport. From the airport, you can take a shuttle or rent a car for the 1.5-hour drive to Banff town center. Additionally, Banff is well-connected to other Canadian and American cities via regular international airlines and direct flights from other airports in Canada.

What are the Top Things to Do in Banff?

Banff is home to a wide variety of exciting and unique experiences, outdoor activities and attractions. Here are some of the top things to see and do while in Banff:

Exploring Banff National Park

Banff National Park is a wonderland of natural beauty and wilderness, offering spectacular landscapes, world-class hiking trails, and dazzling turquoise lakes. Some popular sights include; Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Columbia Icefield, and the Banff Springs Hotel.

Hiking and Mountain Biking

Banff boasts the best hiking and mountain biking trails in North America, with a variety of difficulty levels and terrain types suitable for visitors of all skill levels. Some of the popular trails are Sulphur Mountain, Tunnel Mountain, and Grassi Lakes. The terrain makes it the perfect adventure destination for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.

Skiing and Snowboarding

With three epic resorts, Banff is the ultimate ski and snowboard destination in Canada. Ski and snowboarding season in Banff usually starts in November and lasts until May, allowing for an extended period of winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-skating. Some popular ski resorts include Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise, and Banff Ski Resort.

Wildlife Watching

Banff is home to a variety of beautiful animals, including elk, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and coyotes. To enjoy this experience to the fullest, visitors can take wildlife tours, such as a wildlife safari, and take pictures of these animals in their natural habitats.

Can You Recommend Any Fun Annual Events in Banff?

There are plenty of exciting annual events and festivals to enjoy in Banff, including:

Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival

This festival takes place each year in early November and features nine days of film screenings, guest speakers, book signings, and workshops. It celebrates the art of mountain filmmaking and storytelling and promotes positive change in the world.

Banff Ice Magic Festival

This festival is typically held in January and features teams of professional ice carvers from around the world. Visitors can see them transforming frozen blocks of ice into breathtaking, intricate works of art.

Banff Marathon

The Banff Marathon is typically held on the third Sunday of June and features a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K run. The courses wind through gorgeous scenery, culminating in a finish line in the heart of Banff.

Where Can I Find the Best Accommodation in Banff?

Banff has a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to cozy cabins and cottages. Some of the top-rated lodging options include The Fairmont Banff Springs, Rimrock Resort Hotel, and Baker Creek Mountain Resort.

What is the Local Culture of Banff?

Banff is home to numerous indigenous communities such as Stoney Nakoda First Nation, who have been living in the area for thousands of years. Visitors have the opportunity to experience original Indigenous artwork, music, and dance. Along with that, the local culture of Banff has beautifully preserved history and cultural artifacts in several museums located in the area. The Banff Park Museum is a top destination for history and science lovers.

What Should I Pack for My Trip to Banff?

When packing for a trip to Banff, it’s essential to pack clothes for all weather scenarios. Weather can go from one extreme to another in a short period due to fluctuating mountain weather. Visitors should bring warm clothing such as coats, gloves, and hats for their winter trips. It is a must to pack comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, and Insect repellent for summer visits. Lastly, don’t forget swimsuits for the natural hot springs located in some areas of Banff.

Is Banff an Expensive Destination?

Banff is a popular tourist destination and has a reputation for being on the pricier side, but it offers affordable and luxurious options. Accommodation options and restaurant prices vary greatly, with high-end options being more expensive than budget alternatives. It is essential to keep in mind that the majority of outdoor activities in Banff are free of charge to enjoy the natural beauty of Banff, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Final Words

Banff is a truly unique destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Banff has something for everyone. This ultimate guide to Banff FAQs should help answer any questions you have before embarking on your Banff adventure. Come and explore the beauty of Banff for yourself and have an unforgettable experience in the Canadian Rockies!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Banff

Banff is a small town located in the Canadian Rockies and is known for its breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It’s a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, with plenty to see and do. In this guide, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the activities and attractions that make Banff a must-visit destination.

Hiking in Banff

One of the main reasons people come to Banff is for the hiking trails. With over 1,600 km of trails, Banff National Park is a hiker’s paradise. Some of the most popular hikes include Johnston Canyon, Lake Agnes and the Plain of Six Glaciers, and the Larch Valley Trail. These trails are well-maintained, with stunning views of alpine meadows, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. Keep in mind, that trail conditions can change quickly, and it’s essential to check weather and trail reports before heading out.

Banff Gondola

Another fantastic way to experience the beauty of Banff is by taking a gondola ride up to the top of Sulphur Mountain. The Banff Gondola takes visitors to an elevation of 2,281 meters, where they can take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once at the top, visitors can explore the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station, boardwalks, and exhibits that offer information about the history, geology, and wildlife of the area.

Wildlife Watching

Banff National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and even grizzly bears. There are several guided wildlife tours available, where visitors can safely view and learn about the animals in their natural habitat. However, it’s essential to remember that these are wild animals, and visitors should maintain a safe distance at all times. Visitors must stay at least 30 meters away from most wildlife and 100 meters away from bears and wolves.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Banff is home to several stunning lakes that are perfect for canoeing or kayaking. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are two of the most popular lakes in the park, and rentals are available at both locations. There are also several guided tours available that provide visitors with a unique perspective of the park and its wildlife.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Banff is a winter wonderland, and its ski resorts are some of the best in North America. The three main resorts in the area are Banff Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Each resort offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With an average of 9 meters of snowfall each year, Banff is a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Relaxing in the Hot Springs

After a long day of hiking, skiing, or sightseeing, there’s nothing better than a soak in the hot springs. The Banff Upper Hot Springs are open year-round and offer visitors the chance to relax in the warm mineral waters while taking in spectacular mountain views. There are also several spa services available that provide additional relaxation and pampering.

Book Your Tour Now

Banff is a magical place that offers visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing in the hot springs, Banff has something for everyone. Keep in mind that the park is a conservation area, and visitors should take care to leave no trace and respect the wildlife and land. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, a trip to Banff can be an unforgettable experience.